Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV
In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago native, was elected as the new Pope on May 8, 2025. He chose the papal name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the 267th Pope and leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost joined the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Villanova University and a doctorate from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas. Prevost spent over two decades serving in Peru, first as an Augustinian missionary and later as Bishop of Chiclayo. He was appointed as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops by Pope Francis in January 2023, a key position that evaluates and recommends candidates for the episcopate around the world. The white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney signaled the successful election of a new Pope. At 6:07 p.m. Rome time, the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica began to ring, and French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti announced the news to the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square: “Habemus papam!” – We have a Pope! As Pope Leo XIV, he brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to promoting unity within the Church. In his previous roles, he emphasized the importance of bishops being close to their people, serving with humility, and avoiding clericalism. His vision for the Church is one of service, compassion, and unity. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
New Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey Commits to Transforming Accra in Line with National Vision
The newly confirmed Mayor of Accra, Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, is ready to embark on a transformative journey for the capital city. After receiving unanimous approval with 100 percent of the votes from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) members during his confirmation ceremony on Tuesday, Allotey expressed his commitment to align Accra’s development agenda with President John Dramani Mahama’s ambitious plan to “Reset Ghana.” In a spirited address that resonated with Assembly Members and distinguished guests, Mr. Allotey declared, “We are going to reset Accra from now on. It begins now,” prompting a wave of applause that echoed throughout the venue. The new Mayor is determined to ensure that the reset of Accra embodies the principles of inclusive growth, accountability, and transformational leadership. His vision is not just a local initiative but a reflection of President Mahama’s broader call for renewal across the nation. “Accra will not be left behind. As the seat of government and the heartbeat of our nation, Accra must lead by example in this national rebirth,” Mr. Allotey asserted, indicating his understanding of the city’s pivotal role in Ghana’s future. With this commitment, Mr. Allotey signals a fresh start for Accra, aiming to elevate the city’s development and align it more closely with the national goals set forth by the administration. The excitement and anticipation surrounding his leadership mark a hopeful chapter for the capital and its residents.
Strategic Actions Fuel Appreciation of Ghanaian Cedi, Says Kofi Bentil
Kofi Bentil, the Senior Vice President of the policy think tank IMANI Africa, has recently highlighted the significant factors behind the Ghanaian cedi’s recent appreciation. Apexnewsgh reports In a Facebook post on Thursday, May 8, Bentil credited a blend of strategic government actions from both past and present, notably emphasizing the pivotal role played by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Bentil pointed out that while the appreciation of the cedi is influenced by global economic factors, it is primarily rooted in prudent domestic strategies, particularly the gold purchase program initiated by Dr. Bawumia during his tenure. “The cedi is appreciating because the US government is acting in ways that is devaluing the dollar… but there is more,” he wrote. He explained that Ghana’s growing gold reserves have played a crucial role in this financial turnaround. According to Bentil, the current government has increased gold reserves slightly from 30.53 tonnes inherited from the previous administration to 31.37 tonnes as of April 2025. However, he noted that a significant portion of the gold acquired under the current administration has been sold, generating over $2.7 billion in revenue in 2025 alone. Monthly figures from January to April reflect substantial inflows: $506 million, $579 million, $742 million, and $897 million, respectively. “The current JM government did not add much to the reserves but sold gold and has pumped the dollars received into the economy,” Bentil stated. He concluded that these cumulative actions are largely responsible for the cedi’s strengthening. While commending President John Mahama’s administration for its management of the currency, Bentil stressed the necessity of continuity and collaboration among successive governments. “There’s something about the passion of an originator which no one else can emulate… we get nothing by spurning them and gain everything by co-opting them,” he remarked. In his closing thoughts, he emphasized that no single government can develop Ghana in isolation, urging a collective effort. “It is a baton relay and that is what is helping the cedi today. May this good work started by DMB and continued by JM go on,” Bentil concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Oliver Barker-Vormawor Critiques Former Intelligence Chief’s Defense in Embezzlement Case
Private legal practitioner Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor has launched a sharp critique of former intelligence chief Mr. Kawbena Adu-Boahene regarding his defense in an ongoing embezzlement case. Barker-Vormawor contends that Adu-Boahene’s claim of the classified nature of certain operations is severely undermined by the public disclosure of those same details. In a scathing commentary shared on Facebook, Barker-Vormawor highlighted that Adu-Boahene had previously “refused to inform investigators” about purportedly covert operations during interrogations with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), citing their classified status. However, he pointed out that these details have since been made public through Adu-Boahene’s lawyers. Barker-Vormawor questioned the practicality of these disclosures for citizens without security clearance and noted the puzzling omission of Adu-Boahene’s failure to raise these concerns with the National Security Coordinator or the Attorney-General’s office while he was on bail. Describing Adu-Boahene’s defense as a “red herring,” the lawyer refrained from directly accusing the former intelligence chief of fabricating his claims but insisted it is crucial to “interrogate independently” the veracity of the alleged operations. He cautioned against the assumption that public disclosure would exempt Adu-Boahene from further scrutiny. A key aspect of Barker-Vormawor’s critique is the absence of direct evidence linking the allegedly embezzled funds to the covert operations described by Adu-Boahene. “There is absolutely no proof that the monies he is said to have embezzled and the monies used for these possibly true activities are the same,” he emphasized. Furthermore, he dismissed Adu-Boahene’s assertion of immunity under state-security provisions as “preposterous,” likening it to “blackmail justice.” Barker-Vormawor warned that unauthorized disclosures, even if intended to absolve criminal liability, could lead to additional repercussions for Adu-Boahene. He reminded his audience that while national security operations are inherently covert, they are not devoid of accountability. “Covert special-purpose vehicles require approval, and can be audited. No one has the power to spend state funds without accountability,” he stated. In conclusion, Barker-Vormawor urged government auditors with security clearances to closely examine the disbursements in question, reinforcing that “national security is largely covert but not a black hole.” He underscored the necessity for transparency and accountability, particularly when addressing sensitive state operations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Police Service Investigates Alleged Assault Involving Majority Leader Afenyo-Markin
The Ghana Police Service has confirmed that it is conducting investigations into an alleged assault involving Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader in Parliament, and a police officer during a recent public demonstration. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement released on Tuesday, the Police announced that the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) had formally requested Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s presence to assist with their inquiries. The lawmaker complied with this request and reported to the police on May 7, 2025. The incident, which has sparked significant public attention, reportedly took place during the demonstration, although specific details are still under investigation. Adding a new layer to the situation, the Police Service disclosed that they have received a petition from Mr. Afenyo-Markin himself. In this petition, he alleges that he was assaulted by the police officer involved in the incident. The Police confirmed that both complaints—Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s alleged assault of the officer and the counter-allegation made by the MP—are being investigated simultaneously. “The Ghana Police Service continues its investigation into the case of an alleged assault against a police officer by Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin,” the statement affirmed. “Investigation has also commenced into a petition received from Mr. Afenyo-Markin alleging he was assaulted by the police officer concerned.” As the inquiry unfolds, both parties await clarity on the matter amidst growing public interest. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Unveils Progress on 24-Hour Economy Policy Within First 120 Days
President John Dramani Mahama has revealed remarkable progress in the implementation of his administration’s flagship 24-hour economy policy, fulfilling a crucial campaign promise within his first 120 days in office. Apexnewsgh reports During a press briefing, President Mahama expressed satisfaction with the momentum of the initiative, stating, “We promised to commence drafting the needed legal amendments and prepare for implementation within the first 120 days — and we have delivered on that promise.” The President shared that the Cabinet has approved substantial amendments to key legislation, including the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act and the Labour Act. These changes are designed to enhance social protection, foster a supportive legal framework for round-the-clock economic activity, and strengthen relations between labor and businesses. As part of this ambitious rollout, several government institutions have already adopted 24/7 operations, yielding promising outcomes. “The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre has introduced 24-hour premium services to eliminate processing delays for investors,” President Mahama noted. He further highlighted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a 24-hour passport service, while the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has extended its working hours to address an 18-month backlog of license applications. The employment opportunities arising from the policy are also beginning to take shape. The President announced an initiative from the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) — the Graduates in Corporate Support Programme — which is set to deploy 20,000 graduates to businesses operating around the clock. To address security concerns during nighttime operations, the Ghana Police Service is establishing a dedicated 24-hour police unit aimed at enhancing night patrols and incorporating advanced surveillance technology. On the energy front, President Mahama revealed that the Energy Ministry is collaborating with the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to roll out smart meters featuring time-of-use tariffs. This initiative will encourage off-peak energy consumption by offering reduced rates to businesses embracing 24-hour operations. Interest from the private sector has surged, with many businesses expressing a willingness to engage with the policy. “We are pursuing new avenues of job creation, expanding opportunities especially for young graduates, and positioning the private sector as a critical engine of sustainable growth,” he stated. In closing, President Mahama emphasized that the 24-hour economy policy is crafted to drive structural transformation across Ghana’s economy, targeting pivotal sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. “This programme will serve as a catalyst for long-term economic renewal,” he asserted, “anchored on innovation, productivity, and inclusive growth.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com